How to fight annoying insects in the summer?
The main difference between natural and chemical insect repellents lies in the active ingredient that repels insects. Natural repellents use natural ingredients such as essential oils and other plant-based elements. These include oils from lemon eucalyptus, rose geranium, cedarwood, peppermint, citronella, and lemongrass. Overall, research indicates that natural insect repellents are safe and effective enough to provide us with adequate protection. That's why many people today choose natural repellents as a safer alternative.
How to avoid unpleasant chemicals?
Most insect sprays and repellents contain insecticides and pesticides. Because the purpose of these chemicals is to kill living organisms. These chemicals are also released into the environment and can have a negative impact on other organisms. According to the Environmental Working Group, they are also potentially harmful to children and pets. Research also points to the potential carcinogenic properties of active and inert ingredients in common insect sprays. Spray residue can also accumulate on toys, furniture and carpets.
What is natural insect repellent?
Natural insect repellents contain substances made from plant oils (such as leaves, stems, bark or flowers) that are applied to the skin or clothing and used to repel insects. These plant oils include oils of lemon eucalyptus, citronella, peppermint, lavender and cedarwood. Many people prefer these oils to traditional products, especially for young children.
How do natural insect repellents work?
Most natural insect repellents work by emitting many so-called volatile molecules into the air – that is, molecules that evaporate easily – and emitting a scent that mosquitoes dislike. When molecules leave the skin and are emitted into the air around the application area, they create a protective shield.
Why choose a natural repellent?
Natural repellents for insects do not contain insecticides and substances that kill insects, but because of their natural volatility, they must be applied at regular intervals to provide lasting protection. Chemical repellents are advantageous in this regard because they do not need to be applied as often. The exception is lemon eucalyptus oil, which researchers at New Mexico State University have found to be nearly as effective and long-lasting as products based on diethyltoluamide, the main ingredient in chemical repellents.
Insect repellent or sunscreen?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sunscreen should be applied first, followed by insect repellent. In general, it is recommended to use separate products - repellent and sunscreen. However, the CDC also notes that the SPF level of sunscreen may decrease when insect repellent is applied after the cream, so more frequent application of sunscreen is recommended.
Which natural repellent should you choose?
Don't let annoying flying insects ruin your day. In our Bioruža e-shop, you can also find a natural alternative - Wooden Spoon Natural Mosquito and Insect Repellent 50 ml. The natural mosquito and tick spray with a unique combination of powerful essential oils will provide you with the necessary protection on warm summer days. The spray contains extract of catmint herb, which demonstrably repels mosquitoes, ticks, all kinds of insects and prevents them from biting. The natural composition of this spray is gentle on nature and your skin.
